It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Vernon James Clem, 89, of Metairie, Louisiana, who passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. We are comforted that he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Vernon was born on January 10, 1936, in Palmdale, CA, to the late Mabel Scott. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Vernon lived a life marked by humility, service, and deep faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Jane Oyler; first wife Nell Clem; son-in-law Mato Dragicevic; son Steven Clem and daughter-in-law Kaycee Clem; stepson Darwin Perrer; and granddaughter Vernell LeMay. He is survived by his beloved second wife of 39 years, Marian Clem; his daughters, Peggy Dragicevic and Valerie LeMay; stepdaughters Rosalyn Bourgeois and Julie Beideman; stepson-in-law Rowdy Bourgeois; his twelve cherished grandchildren: Ali, Anita, Bobbie, Chandler, Diana, Gregory, Ina, Jarah, Joey, Mari, Marty, and Willie; and fifteen great grandchildren, Addison, Alexandra, Amelia, Audrey, Bella, Emma, Eva, Gage, Gavin, Jordan, Jorgia, Kollen, Nickolas, Rylee, and Sean. Vernon is also survived by his sister Ruth Eatherton and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Vernon dedicated over 22 years of service to his country through his military career in the Navy. He was a skilled mechanic who worked on Navy aircrafts and after his military retirement, boats and automobiles. A man of deep faith, Vernon had a profound love for Jesus, his family, his country, and the open road—finding joy in music, traveling across the United States, and making memories with those he loved most.

A celebration of Vernon’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 14th at 11:00 AM at Faithful Word Assembly Church at 1401 Joe Yenni Blvd., Kenner, LA 70065. Visitation will precede the celebration of life from 9 am-11 am. A private burial for family will follow at the Garden of Memories Cemetery at 4900 Airline Dr., Metairie, LA 70001.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Vernon’s memory to the military charity of your choice.

Vernon will be greatly missed but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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